Pureora Forest search for missing 79-year-old Auckland woman continues

The search for a 79-year-old woman who was reported missing in the Pureora Forest last Saturday is ongoing.

Detective inspector Graham Pitkethley said the woman is of medium height, about 167cm tall, and of slim build with grey hair.

He said she was last seen wearing trail-type shoes, black pants and possibly a silver jacket.

“LandSAR [Land Search and Rescue], and police SAR remain in the area today working to locate the 79-year-old Auckland woman who went missing while with a group setting bait lines in the Pureora Forest.

“Police would like to thank landowners who have assisted police and LandSAR in accessing and searching areas of their land and everyone who has provided information to assist in our search.”

He asked trampers or hunters who were in the area on March 23 and 24 to contact police on 105.

“We would like to remind any hunters or trampers who are planning to be around this area, during the start of the deer hunting roar session, to be extra vigilant due to the increase of people searching in the area and to contact police on 111 if they see anything that may help to find the missing woman, and reference P058194666.”

Senior Constable Alastair Methven said yesterday LandSAR volunteers, dogs and Canyon Search and Rescue have spent the week in the area searching for the missing woman.

“Police Eagle helicopter also spent time over the area using thermal imaging.”

Methven said the missing woman’s medical profile suggests she “may become unresponsive and curl up to a small position”.

The Pureora Forest is described as thick canopy with multiple waterways and waterfalls.

Volunteers from Hamilton, Waitomo, Waihi, Te Aroha/Paeroa, Taranaki, Tongariro, Thames, Tūrangi, Taupō, and Tairua/Pauanui/Whangamatā LandSAR are assisting.

“Safety is a high priority for both our volunteer searchers and hunters.

“Our searchers will be clearly identified with hi-vis orange Land Search and Rescue clothing and will be making noises such as whistle blasts and voice calls while searching,” Methven said.